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Virus diseases are caused by a wide range of viruses and virus-like pathogens. Most are transmitted by grafting and vegetative propagation. Further transmission can occur by insect or nematode vectors. Virus symptoms vary according to causal agent, but may include mottling, mosaic blotches, ringspot, chlorosis and yellowing, leaf curl, leaf blister, distortion, dwarfing or stunting, and/or reduced fruit yield. Some virus symptoms can resemble herbicide damage. Susceptibility may vary by bramble species or cultivar. Viruses are systemic, and once a plant is infected, it remains infected for life.

Impatiens necrotic spot virus on blackberry foliage.

(Photo: John Hartman, University of Kentucky)

Impatiens necrotic spot virus on fruit.

(Photo: John Hartman, University of Kentucky)

Blackberry ringspot virus.

(Photo: Paul Bachi, University of Kentucky)

Management:

• Begin with disease-free, indexed stock.
• Consider planting tolerant cultivars.
• Rogue (completely remove) and destroy symptomatic plants.
• Manage weeds and potential vector hosts.
• Avoid planting in proximity to older plantings or wild brambles.  

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